Finding safe, affordable, and comfortable student accommodation in Australia is one of the biggest priorities for international students. Australia offers a wide range of housing options on-campus, off-campus, homestay, shared accommodation, and purpose-built student apartments each with different costs, facilities, and flexibility.
This complete guide to accommodation for international students in Australia covers everything: types of housing, weekly costs, renting rules, tips to save money, best cities for students, and how to avoid scams.

Types of Student Accommodation in Australia

1. On-Campus Accommodation (University Housing)

Best for: New students, those wanting convenience
Universities provide dorms, halls of residence, and student colleges.
Features: Fully furnished, utilities included, study spaces, security.

Average Cost: AUD $180–$450/week

Pros

• Close to classes
• Safe & well-managed
• Meal plans available

Cons

• Limited privacy
• Higher demand during admission

Read the blog How to Apply for Australian Universities from Nepal  to know how to apply for Australian universities from Nepal in 2026, from choosing your course to receiving your visa.

2. Off-Campus Rental Apartments

Students rent privately with friends or alone.

Average Cost: AUD $250–$600/week depending on city & area

Pros

• More freedom
• Can choose location, size, and budget

Cons

• Must pay bond + rent in advance
• Utility bills extra

3. Shared Accommodation (Flatshare/Roomshare)

One of the most affordable options for international students.

Average Cost: AUD $120–$250/week

Pros

• Cheap
• Social environment

Cons

• Less privacy
• Roommates must be well-matched\

4. Homestay in Australia

Live with a local Australian family.

Average Cost: AUD $250–$350/week (includes meals)

Pros

• Safe for first-timers
• Meals and utilities included
• Helps improve English & cultural experience

Cons

• Less independence

5. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Examples: Scape, Urbanest, Iglu, UniLodge
Designed specifically for students.

Average Cost: AUD $280–$550/week

Pros

• High security
• Gym, cinema, study rooms
• Walkable to universities

Cons

• Expensive

Cost of Student Accommodation in Australia (City-Wise)

Understanding the cost of student accommodation in Australia is essential for planning your budget before moving. Prices vary widely depending on the city, type of housing, and student demand. This table below breaks down the city-wise average weekly costs to help you compare Australia’s major study destinations and choose the option that best fits your budget and lifestyle.

City	Average Weekly Cost	Notes
Sydney	$250–$650	Most expensive
Melbourne	$220–$550	Many options for international students
Brisbane	$180–$450	Affordable PBSA
Adelaide	$150–$350	Cheapest major city
Perth	$180–$400	Good for part-time jobs
Canberra	$200–$450	Strong on-campus demand

The cost of student accommodation in Australia changes from city to city, with Sydney being the most expensive and Adelaide offering the most affordable options. By comparing rent ranges and local advantages, students can make smarter housing decisions that match both their financial plan and study goals. 

How to Find Accommodation in Australia (Step-by-Step) 

1. Decide your budget

Before searching for student accommodation in Australia, the first step is setting a clear weekly budget. Consider major expenses like rent, utilities, groceries, transport, phone bills, and study materials. Knowing average Australia student living costs usually AUD 450–700 per week depending on the city, will help you plan realistically. A well-planned budget makes it easier to find affordable student accommodation Australia that still meets your comfort and safety needs.

2. Choose your location

Your location decides both your lifestyle and your weekly expenses. Living close to your university often reduces transport costs and travel time, making it easier to manage classes, work, and daily routines. Many students prefer suburbs near major campuses because they offer a balance of convenience, safety, and affordability. When choosing a location for student accommodation in Australia, check factors like distance, public transport access, supermarkets, libraries, and job opportunities. This helps you stay within your budget while still enjoying student life.

3. Search on verified platforms

• Flatmates.com.au
• Realestate.com.au
• Domain.com.au
• Student.com
• UniLodge websites

These platforms specialise in affordable student accommodation Australia and provide detailed listings with rent, location, photos, and included utilities. Verified listings ensure you get safe and legitimate student accommodation in Australia without hidden costs.

4. Inspect room (online/offline)

A proper inspection saves you from future problems. Whether visiting in person or joining an online tour, check:

• WiFi speed (important for online classes & assignments)
• Noise levels
• Lighting & ventilation
• Security and building rules
• Contract terms (minimum stay, inclusions, rent increases)
• Distance from campus and public transport

Inspecting early helps you avoid unexpected Australia student living costs such as buying furniture, paying for extra utilities, or spending heavily on transport.

5. Sign the lease

Once you find the right place, carefully read the lease agreement before signing. Understand rules about rent payments, guests, maintenance, notice periods, and bond refund. Many student accommodation in Australia properties have strict guidelines, so make sure you’re comfortable with the terms. Never sign anything without clarifying doubts, your lease protects both you and the landlord.

6. Pay bond (security deposit)

A bond (usually 4–6 weeks’ rent) is paid before moving in. This is standard across most rental properties and student housing providers. Budgeting for the bond is essential when planning for Australia student living costs because it’s a one-time upfront payment. The bond is fully refundable at the end of your stay as long as there is no damage and all payments are clear.

Finding affordable student accommodation in Australia starts with setting a clear weekly budget based on typical Australia student living costs like rent, food, and transport. Choose a location close to your university to save money and time. Always search through verified platforms such as Flatmates, Realestate, Domain, Student.com, and university housing portals to avoid scams. Inspect the room online or in person to check Wi-Fi, noise, safety, and contract terms. Before moving in, read the lease carefully and be aware that most student accommodation in Australia requires a bond of 4 to 6 weeks’ rent as a security deposit.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation

Choose shared accommodation

Opting for shared housing is one of the easiest ways to find affordable student accommodation in Australia. Sharing with roommates can cut rent by 30–50%, which significantly reduces your overall Australia student living costs. Many options for shared student accommodation in Australia are available near universities, offering furnished rooms, shared kitchens, and a social living environment.

Live slightly outside the city

City-center rentals are usually more expensive. Choosing suburbs just outside the main city, especially areas close to train or tram lines which can help you secure affordable student accommodation in Australia at a much lower price. These locations still offer easy access to university, shops, and part-time jobs, helping you balance comfort and your weekly Australia student living costs.

Cook at home

Food and dining out are among the biggest expenses for international students in Australia. Cooking at home is a smart way to save money and maintain a healthy routine. Students living in shared kitchens within student accommodation in Australia can meal-prep, share groceries with roommates, and cut weekly food costs significantly. This small habit can reduce your overall Australia student living costs by a large margin.

Look for all-inclusive rent

Many student housing providers in Australia offer “all-inclusive rent,” which covers electricity, water, gas, internet, and sometimes even furniture. Choosing such affordable student accommodation in Australia makes budgeting easier because you won’t get unexpected bills. It’s especially useful for new students who want predictable Australia student living costs without worrying about separate utility payments.

Avoid short-term contracts

Short-term rentals usually have higher weekly rates. Choosing longer leases such as 6 or 12 months can help you secure more affordable student accommodation in Australia. Long-term contracts not only cost less but also give you stability while studying. This is helpful for managing Australia student living costs throughout the year and avoiding frequent moving expenses.

Shared housing, living slightly outside the city, and cooking at home all help reduce Australia student living costs. Choosing all-inclusive rent and longer leases makes it easier to find and manage affordable student accommodation in Australia.

Check out Student Budgeting Tips to know more about managing money.

Avoiding Rental Scams in Australia

Finding a place to live in Australia can be exciting, but it’s important to stay alert and avoid rental scams. Being cautious from the start helps protect your money and ensures you get safe, genuine accommodation.

• Never pay without a contract
• Inspect room or request video tour
• Do not send money via Facebook strangers
• Always ask for bond receipt
• Use trusted rental websites

Staying cautious, verifying details, and using trusted platforms can save you from costly mistakes. With the right checks, you can secure safe and reliable accommodation in Australia.

Best Cities for Student Living in Australia

Australia is one of the world’s most popular study destinations, offering high-quality education, diverse culture, and great lifestyle opportunities. Each city has its own strengths, so choosing the right place can make a big difference in your study experience. Here are some of the best cities for students living in Australia and what makes each one unique.

• Melbourne: Top for student culture
• Sydney: Largest job market
• Brisbane: Affordable climate
• Adelaide: Cheapest for students
• Perth: High part-time wages
• Canberra: Best university facilities

Each Australian city offers something different, whether it’s affordability, job opportunities, culture, or campus facilities. The best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and study goals. Understanding what each city offers helps you find the perfect place to enjoy both academic success and a great student life in Australia.

Also don’t miss out to check Best City and University in Australia for International Students.

FAQs – Student Accommodation in Australia

1. What types of student accommodation are available?

On-campus housing, off-campus rentals, shared flats, homestays, and purpose-built student apartments (PBSA).

2. How much does accommodation cost?

Weekly rent ranges from AUD $120–$650, depending on the city and type of housing.

3. How can I find safe and affordable accommodation?

Use verified platforms, inspect rooms online/in-person, avoid strangers, and always get a lease and bond receipt.

4. Are utilities included in rent?

Some on-campus and PBSA options include utilities; private rentals often do not, so check if rent is all-inclusive.

Conclusion

Finding student accommodation in Australia becomes easier when you know what to expect, costs, types of housing, rental rules, and common scams. Whether you choose on-campus accommodation, shared flats, homestay, or modern student apartments, Australia provides safe and comfortable living options for all budgets.
By comparing living expenses, course demand, job opportunities, and university rankings, you can find the perfect study destination to study in Australia.  With the right planning, you can enjoy an affordable and stress-free student life.